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Furniture gets a blow up: how to shop the latest design trend
These covetable inflatable pieces will inject a sense of play into any interior
The 1990s are calling, and the decade wants its bubble chair back. Once associated with novelty and children’s interiors, air-filled design is experiencing a revival. Production designer Jabez Bartlett’s ‘Inflatable Table’ series, with its cushioned PVC base and pearly, translucent resin tops, got lots of airtime this year, as it popped up at Milan and Copenhagen’s respective design festivals. Meanwhile, Ikea launched its first inflatable chair since 1997, complete with a foot pump and a metal frame that anchors it in place. Below, we look at the best new examples of the trend...
‘PS 2026’ easy chair, Ikea
Ikea’s latest ‘PS’ collection marks a milestone for the brand as it’s the first time the Swedish furniture giant has released inflatable furniture since the 1990s. Designed by Mikael Axelsson, the armchair features two inflatable cushions set within a tubular steel frame. £129, ikea.com
‘Bienvenue’ inflatable bed, Campeggi
This is a world away from the tired blow-up mattresses of festivals past. Designed by Thélonious Goupil , it is part of a whole bedroom furniture kit that springs out of one compact box called ‘Bienvenue’, which translates to welcome. The kit also includes a stool, headboard, duvet, pillow and privacy screen. Approx £605 for the bed, campeggidesign.it
‘Float’ pouf, Westwing
Paying homage to traditional doughnut-shaped swimming pool floats, this pouf by Studio About will brighten any corner. There are four vibrantly coloured options available, as well as matching bolster cushions. £309, westwing.co.uk
‘Table 002’, Jabez Bartlett
The set designer’s second air-pumped coffee table takes a rounded form but retains its mystical qualities thanks to the translucent materials. Every top is hand cast in resin, giving each table its own unique character. £5,700, @jabezbartlett
‘Bubble’ stool, Studio Ololoo
Studio Ololoo turned to TPU airbags when creating these ‘Bubble’ stools, transforming the recyclable plastic into the cushioned seat. Meanwhile, the legs are made from made of ash wood in a small factory in Ningbo, China. Approx £685 each, studioololoo.com
‘Cloud Chair’, Minnidip
Our edit wouldn’t be complete without an actual swimming inflatable, and Minnidip’s ‘Cloud Chair’ by Emily Vaca, with its undulating shape and rattan-inspired pattern, is the cream of the crop. Approx £35, minnidip.com
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